I am thinking about parting with my Aerco (
seen here) and figured I would check with the team first here. It is in fantastic condition for its age. It was purchased from Jerry Bruck (Posthorn) on eBay back in 2013 and appeared to have never really been used. Mine is somewhat unusual compared to many of the current ones out there. According to Jerry, this preamp is the first MP-2 configuration. Paperwork included showing some tests on the unit are dated 09-1991. The gain adjustments are weird and have to be adjusted with a small jeweler's screwdriver through the RCA jacks, however, I've always left it set in the +20dB setting, effectively treating it as a fixed preamp. There is a small 1" SYF metal sticker on top of the unit now (not pictured). It's actually much cleaner looking on the outside than what's portrayed with using the flash in those pics. When I contacted Jerry about info this preamp and the possibility of replacing the parts, this is what he said:
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That is indeed the very first configuration, the idea was to have maximum ruggedness as it was favorexd by news crews because at the time it was the only portable preamp that would power the Neuman RSM-190i matrix mic which they frequently used. None of the electronics wear or degrade in normal use- one transformer became noisy when it was immersed in water. Those transformers have spectacular performance but apparently imperfect potting. The switches are a nuisance if you change gain a lot but should be well suited to your mode of use- they are industrial grade and should last essentially forever. Connectors are always prone to wear but the Neutrik XLRs should last for many thousands of insertions / removals. The RCA connectors are more prone to wear but if you're not experiencing any problems there is no benefit in replacing them. The 3.5 mm stereo connector is never reliable for serious use and is just there for a quick check with a pair of headphones. With all that said, never hesitate to request service or advice- I take vicarious pleasure from your successful recordings. :-)) -
The transformers are stamped "RE 13K6-C".
Here's a link to the Reichenbach specs for them.
I'd be looking to get exactly what I paid, $525 shipped. If interested, let me know. SOLD